Ministry investigating Marineland mass animal graves

TORONTO – The Ministry of the Environment has launched a “high priority” investigation after a published report said thousands of dead animals, from deer to whales, are buried in mass graves on the Marineland park property.

A report in the Toronto Star on Thursday said that the ministry was informed of the practice when the newspaper called to ask about the potential environmental impact of the graves.

The location is reportedly in 4 separate pits near a forest just south of where the attractions end. Its proximity to the Welland River has caused concern about contaminated water.

“The local environment of the Welland River, Niagara River, could potentially be affected, it’s a matter of identifying exactly what is there,” said Don Ford, Geoenviromental Manager of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.

One expert says they have good reason to be at least be cautious.

“There’s relatively shallow soils on top of fractured limestone bedrock,” said Ford. “That means that any contaminants from the carcasses could be more mobile in the environment.”

The first inspection has already been conducted with a second day planned.

In an emailed statement, Marineland tells Global News it’s cooperating and has followed the rules.

“We have always treated our animals with love and respect both in life and death and we do the same with their remains. We have always paid the strictest attention to the law in how they are buried,” said Marineland marketing office manager Ann Marie Rondinelli.

It’s been a rough few months for Marineland; accusations of animal mistreatment began in August. That’s when former trainer Phil Demers made claims of neglect during an interview with Global News in Niagara Falls.

“I saw animals that were subjected to really harsh chemicals, of which some irreparable damage was made,” said Demers.

In response, Marineland’s head veterinarian gave Global News a tour of the facilities, insisting the animals there are well taken care of and better than they would be just a short drive south.

“These are above standards for USDA and the Marine Animal Act in the United States,” said June Mergl, director of veterinary services at Marineland.

So far, independent inspections by the Ontario SPCA and the self-governing Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums have given the park passing grades.

But allegations persist and have prompted a number of rallies, one of which saw protesters force their way into the park.

In a move fully supported by Marineland, the Community Safety Minister promised a consultation process next year, looking into the possibility of changes to animal welfare laws and maybe even forcing zoos and aquariums to be licensed.